Nesting behavior and nest site selection in monk parakeets (Myiopsitta monachus) in the Pantanal of Brazil

摘要: We examined nesting behavior in monk parakeets (Myiopsitta monachus) their native habitat the Brazilian Pantanal. Unique among parrots, build communal nest structures that contain many cavities, each belonging to an individual pair. studied 41 parakeet colonies had 104 structures. hypothesized would be located trees providing greatest support and protection from predators inclement weather, sites cavities differ random locations with respect tree characteristics, location of houses, presence jabiru stork (Jabiru mycteria) nests, as suggested anecdotally by other authors. Fewer than half were close (<350 m) houses. There was a strong association storks; 21 23 nests attached, accounting for 51% colonies. Of jabiru-associated colonies, 6 additional 15 only jabiru-attached structure. Monk associated significantly more did monospecific due mainly those attached directly nest. In higher taller no difference trunk diameters or without jabirus. Although we tabulated 24 species trees, nearest-neighbor matched-point used nesting. When compared matched points, preferentially piuva (Tabebuia spp.) mandovi (Sterculia apetela). Parakeet thicker points. Most (71%) faced northerly direction (northwest northeast), away cold southerly winds. Choice site orientation appears reflect structural, predator constraints. Thick, tall stout branches provided stable large structures, which are known collapse because own weight Nesting jabirus confers structural advantages (they could attach bottom nest, potentially gaining benefits social facilitation), early warning, defense.